Blu-ray Movie Reviews

Set up, double-crossed and left for dead, Machete is an ass-kicking ex-Federale who lays waste to anything that gets in his path. As he takes on hitmen, vigilantes and a ruthless drug cartel, bullets fly, blades clash and the body count rises. Any way you slice it, vengeance has a new name - "Machete".

What started off as a spoof trailer has turned into a great looking fully realized film from director Robert Rodriguez. While this movie was shot with digital HD cameras, it actually has a very natural film-like look with obvious film grain and nice texture and detail. The opening sequence is stylized to present the Grindhouse look of the trailer, but once you get past that it has a more modern day produced look. Colors are definitely on the more saturated side but work well with the film. Contrast is strong and shadow detail is exemplary. The DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack is also solid with plenty of action to work with. Lots of explosions and plenty of bass make this a nice workout for your home theater. The balance of the mix is dead on with great imaging and surround presence.

Extras include a digital copy for your portable device plus a look at the making of the film, and deleted scenes. The title is also BD-Live enabled.

While not as entertaining as some of Rodriguez’s other action films, Machete is still good popcorn fun with lots of bullets, broads and blood. It never takes itself too seriously, but is chocked full of great actors and lots of fun action. Recommended.